André Greipel underwent surgery in the hospital of Herentals last night for the injuries he incurred in Ghent-Wevelgem. Doctor Toon Claes replaced the torn ligaments between shoulder and collarbone and fixed a little plate to it. The operation went smoothly. The German spent the night in hospital and after a check-up he could go home this afternoon.

André Greipel about the crash: “A rider jumped from the kerb on the road and there was a crash just in front of me, followed by a domino effect. I tried to avoid it, but a moment later I flew through the air. With the known consequences. I immediately knew it was over.”

André Greipel about the missed opportunity: “The entire day the team kept the race under control. We controlled the early break, everyone was very attentive, we were with five in the front group and I felt very good. I definitely don’t want to say I would have won, but I’d loved to have tried it. And for the team it’s a missed opportunity to set a good result in a classic.”

André Greipel about the pain (of the end of the spring races): “The physical pain isn’t too bad. The surgery was successful and I feel pretty good at the moment. I would have loved to help the team in the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix to set the best possible result. Normally I take some rest after Paris-Roubaix, now that period has been advanced. And Sunday? Il will be the first supporter.”